WEBVTT

1
00:00:01.533 --> 00:00:04.799
Music is a universal form of self-expression.

2
00:00:04.800 --> 00:00:10.700
Musicians and Singers convey a culture’s musical traditions and create new forms as well. 

3
00:00:10.700 --> 00:00:14.566
An ear, or talent, for music often shows up early in life.

4
00:00:14.566 --> 00:00:20.366
While vocal training for singers usually begins in later teen years when the voice matures,

5
00:00:20.366 --> 00:00:23.332
musicians can start learning an instrument even sooner.

6
00:00:23.333 --> 00:00:28.933
For those who specialize in classical or jazz music, it’s typical to take formal instruction,

7
00:00:28.933 --> 00:00:34.266
such as studying with a "master" or earning a bachelors or master’s degree in music.

8
00:00:34.266 --> 00:00:40.432
Many musicians working in popular music genres, like hip hop, rock, and folk, are self-taught.

9
00:00:40.433 --> 00:00:44.333
Musicians and singers need a great deal of skill, tenacity

10
00:00:44.333 --> 00:00:47.999
and sometimes luck -- to earn a living from music.

11
00:00:48.000 --> 00:00:50.600
While they may find work through competitive auditions,

12
00:00:50.600 --> 00:00:54.800
most need to promote themselves to find consistent work.

13
00:00:54.800 --> 00:00:59.400
Gigs, or performances, are often scheduled in the evenings, weekends or holidays

14
00:00:59.400 --> 00:01:01.866
and can require travel away from home.

15
00:01:01.866 --> 00:01:07.332
Musicians and singers often teach, or hold another “day job” to support a performing career.  

16
00:01:07.333 --> 00:01:12.233
Offering lessons and performing for different venues is a form of self-employment.

17
00:01:12.233 --> 00:01:15.866
Financial and business experience or classes can be helpful for

18
00:01:15.866 --> 00:01:19.432
managing the business side of a self-employed music career.

19
00:01:19.433 --> 00:01:22.133
While a music career isn’t an easy one, for many,

20
00:01:22.133 --> 00:01:27.233
the joy of performing more than makes up for the sacrifices the art demands.